Systems and methods for usage replenishment

ABSTRACT

Provided are dermatological medical devices and methods comprising a distal end for positioning at a region proximal a target therapeutic region of tissue, an output port at the distal end, an energy source that generates optical energy, which is output from the output port to the target therapeutic region of tissue, and a microcontroller that processes replenishment data that controls an operation parameter of the device. The device is activated for performing a treatment operation in response to a receipt and processing of the replenishment data.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/743,718 filed on Sep. 10, 2012, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/850,590 filed on Feb. 19, 2013, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/850,589 filed on Feb. 19, 2013,the content of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD

Embodiments of the present inventive concepts relates generally todevices, systems, and methods for treating dermatological imperfections,and more specifically, to dermatological medical devices, systems, andmethods for performing non-injurying heat shock stimulation of human oranimal tissue.

BACKGROUND

As a person ages, the body goes through a slow process of degeneration.The evidence of the aging process becomes physically apparent in theformation of wrinkles and uneven pigmentation on the skin. Wrinkles, inparticular, are caused by degeneration of the dermis, musclecontractions and gravity. Uneven pigmentation can occur as a result ofaging, sun exposure, or other environmental factors.

The aging process typically includes the loss of collagen in the dermallayer of the skin, which causes the skin to become thinner, and forwrinkles, sagging, or other imperfections to occur.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect, provided are systems, devices, and methods forintegrating a treatment time and usage replenishment business model.

In another aspect, provided is a dermatological medical device,comprising: a distal end for positioning at a region proximal a targettherapeutic region of tissue; an output port at the distal end; anenergy source that generates optical energy, which is output from theoutput port to the target therapeutic region of tissue; and amicrocontroller that processes replenishment data that controls anoperation parameter of the device, wherein the device is activated forperforming a treatment operation in response to a receipt and processingof the replenishment data.

In some embodiments, the dermatological medical device further comprisesa control device that controls the optical energy at the targettherapeutic region of tissue for increasing a temperature of the targettherapeutic region of tissue for a predetermined period of time to atemperature that does not exceed a non-injurying temperature whileinducing an expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) at the targettherapeutic region of tissue.

In some embodiments, the dermatological medical device further comprisesa replenishment cartridge that outputs the replenishment data to themicrocontroller.

In some embodiments, the replenishment cartridge is positioned in thedermatological medical device.

In some embodiments, the replenishment cartridge is external to thedermatological medical device and in communication with thedermatological medical device by an electrical connector.

In some embodiments, the dermatological medical device further comprisesa disposable treatment tip coupled to the distal end of the device,wherein the tip includes the replenishment cartridge.

In some embodiments, the replenishment cartridge includes a consumablepart and a microcontroller.

In some embodiments, the replenishment data is provided by a key codereplenishment mechanism.

In some embodiments, the key code replenishment mechanism includes a barcode.

In some embodiments, the bar code is detected and read by the handheldmember.

In some embodiments, the key code replenishment mechanism includes aradio frequency identification (RFID).

In some embodiments, the replenishment data is provided by areplenishment server in communication with the dermatological medicaldevice.

In some embodiments, key code replenishment is provided to the customerand entered manually through a local computer that is directly connectedto the handheld member

In another aspect, provided is a method for pay-per-use electronicreplenishment, comprising: programming a handheld dermatological medicaldevice with a use parameter; determining whether current use dataexceeds the use parameter; and replenishing the handheld dermatologicalmedical device with a new use parameter in response to a determinationthat the current use data exceeds the use parameter.

In some embodiments, the use parameter includes data corresponding to aa maximum treatment time or usage.

In some embodiments, the handheld dermatological medical device isreplenished by a replenishment cartridge that outputs the new useparameter to a microcontroller at the handheld dermatological medicaldevice.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises positioning thereplenishment cartridge in the dermatological medical device.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises positioning thereplenishment cartridge at a location external to the dermatologicalmedical device and coupling an electrical connector between thereplenishment device and the dermatological medical device forestablishing communication with the dermatological medical device.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises coupling a disposabletreatment tip to a distal end of the device, wherein the tip includesthe replenishment cartridge.

In some embodiments, the new use parameter is provided by areplenishment server in communication with the dermatological medicaldevice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate various embodiments, and,together with the description, serve to explain the principles of theinventive concepts. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical device,in accordance with an embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

FIGS. 2A-2C are front views of various overall packaging concepts, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice of FIGS. 1-2C, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinventive concepts.

FIGS. 3A and 38 are block diagrams of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice, in accordance with another embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical devicepackaged separately from control electronics and a power source, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating a temperature range of a treatment, inaccordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating a skin temperature temporal profilerelative to an optical power continuous wave temporal profile, inaccordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating a skin temperature temporal profilerelative to an optical power pulsed temporal profile, in accordance withembodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 8 is a graph illustrating a thermal boost at the end of a treatmentpulse, in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 9 is a graph illustrating a set of wavelength ranges of interest,in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are graphs illustrating an average heat shock protein(HSP) expression relative to treatment intervals, in accordance withembodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 11 is a view of the geometry of a skin wrinkle.

FIG. 12 is a view of a skin wrinkle that is stretched, in accordancewith embodiments of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 13 is a view of a skin stretching mechanism applied to a skinwrinkle, in accordance with embodiments of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 14 is a view of a polymer realization of a skin stretchingmechanism, in accordance with embodiments of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 15 is a view of a mechanical skin stretching mechanism integratedinto a handheld

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical deviceconstructed and arranged to communicate with a replenishment cartridge,in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are block diagrams of different replenishmentcartridge connection options, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 18 is a view of a replenishment cartridge integrated into atreatment tip, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical deviceincluding a key code replenishment platform, in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 20 illustrates a block diagram of a replenishment systemcommunications environment, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice positioned in a docking station having a replenishment platform,in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 22 illustrates a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice positioned in a docking station having a replenishment platform,in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for replenishing amedical device for continued use, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for replenishing amedical device for continued use, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for replenishing amedical device for continued use, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a graph illustrating power deliveries required to maintain adesired steady state temperature rise, in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 27 is a graph illustrating a thermal boost time in live humantissue, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 28A is a top view of an optical system, in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 28B is a side view of the optical system of FIG. 28A.

FIG. 29 is a view of an energy source 402 and an optical spatialdistribution system (OSDS) having a waveguide, in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 30 is a view of a comparison of a standard waveguide and a modifiedwaveguide, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 31A is a view of an optical spatial distribution system (OSDS)having an angled output surface.

FIG. 31B is a view of the output surface of the OSDS of FIG. 31A incontact with human skin.

FIG. 32 are various views of an OSDS constructed and arranged to achievetotal internal reflection, in accordance with an embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the inventiveconcepts, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be usedthroughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments and is not intended to be limiting of the inventiveconcepts. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” areintended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearlyindicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms“comprises,” “comprising,” “includes” and/or “including,” when usedherein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps,operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps,operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc.may be used herein to describe various limitations, elements,components, regions, layers and/or sections, these limitations,elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not belimited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish onelimitation, element, component, region, layer or section from anotherlimitation, element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a firstlimitation, element, component, region, layer or section discussed belowcould be termed a second limitation, element, component, region, layeror section without departing from the teachings of the presentapplication.

It will be further understood that when an element is referred to asbeing “on” or “connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can bedirectly on or above, or connected or coupled to, the other element orintervening elements can be present. In contrast, when an element isreferred to as being “directly on” or “directly connected” or “directlycoupled” to another element, there are no intervening elements present.Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should beinterpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directlybetween,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). When an elementis referred to herein as being “over” another element, it can be over orunder the other element, and either directly coupled to the otherelement, or intervening elements may be present, or the elements may bespaced apart by a void or gap.

DEFINITIONS

To facilitate understanding, a number of terms are defined below.

As used herein, the terms “subject” and “patient” refer to any animal,such as a mammal like livestock, pets, and humans. Specific examples of“subjects” and “patients” include, but are not limited, to individualsrequiring medical assistance.

As used herein, the terms “skin” and “tissue” refer to any biologicaltissue that may be intended for treatment or near targeted treatmentregion of the subject.

Conventional technologies are readily available to enhance collagenproduction or otherwise address wrinkles or other degenerating skinconditions, and typically include either ablative or non-ablativetherapies. Laser ablative therapies use high water absorption and highoptical peak power delivered in short pulse durations, causingvaporization of water molecules within the skin. This results in theablation of one or more layers of the skin, in particular, the epidermisand partially the dermis. The resulting injury requires an extendedhealing process. Potential side effects such as infections and scars arepresent. Typical non-ablative therapies include thermal denaturation andthermal coagulation. For example, tissue denaturation occurs when thetarget tissue is raised to temperatures exceeding 60° C. Thermalcoagulation can occur when the target tissue is raised to temperaturesexceeding 50-55° C. It is well-known to those of ordinary skill in theart that denatured dermal collagen can stimulate collagen synthesisduring a period of healing of the tissue exposed to these hightemperatures. The safety and effectiveness of laser based thermaltherapies relies on selective absorption of the laser energy bychromophores with the target tissue. Chromophores of particular interestinclude water, lipids, haemoglobin, and melanin. Both ablative andnon-ablative laser therapies rely on energy absorption of suchchromophores.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide devices, systems, and methods thatprovide a reliable non-injurying heat shock stimulation of human oranimal tissue. In particular, a dermatological medical device can beprovided for soft tissue treatments of wrinkle reduction, acnereduction, and/or other degenerating skin conditions addressed by tissueheating, and/or assist in wound healing, skin tightening, and/or thetreatment of fibrous tissue, vascular tissue, or related ailments whereskin tissue experiences a loss of collagen, or a combination thereof.Additional embodiments disclosed herein provide devices, system andmethods for integrating a treatment time and usage replenishmentbusiness model.

During an operation, the intended tissue is heated in accordance with anembodiment described herein. In response to heat shock, exposed cellsproduce heat shock proteins (HSP). HSPs function as molecular chaperonesin processes such as protein maturation and degradation and have aprotective role in a cell's biological function. HSPs can stimulatecollagen synthesis through thermal stimulation and potentiallyphotochemical effects. As laser technology advances, devices and methodsto generate HSP response in a cost effective manner become more readilyavailable.

HSPs are named according to their molecular weight in kilo-Daltons,ranging from 10 to 110. HSPs of interest in dermatology can include butnot be limited to HSP27, HSP47 and HSP70. HSP27 is an anti-apoptoticprotein and protects the cells from death. HSP47 plays an essential rolein collagen biosynthesis in skin fibroblasts. HSP70 refers to a highlyinducible protein and binds to denatured proteins. For example, tissueexposed to an 815 nm diode laser can result in an HSP70 expression andimproved wound healing. One or more HSPs of interest can thereforecontribute to a significant slowing down of cellular aging.

Repeated heat shocks of 39° C. to 42° C. with treatment durations of 30minutes up to 1 hour can result in procollagen type 2 and HSP47expression. However, long exposure times per treatment site are notpractical, and are prevented due to side effects such as damaged tissueand pain. It has also been reported that tissues exposed to less than45° C. showed no significant change in cell proliferation; hence, nodecrease in healing time. Another consideration is that typicalconventional devices, both ablative and non-ablative therapies, oftenproduce pain during treatment.

Typically products and treatment protocols available in the industryrequire end treatment targets of cellular damage at treatmenttemperatures well above 45° C., or above the pain threshold. Typical endtreatment target temperatures are above 50° C. for collagen coagulationand beyond 60° C. for tissue denaturation. There is a need for asolution that provides non-injurying treatments with reduced sideeffects of pain.

In accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts,non-injurying treatments are provided by targeting therapeutictemperatures of generating HSPs of 39° C. or higher and below thetypical thermal pain threshold of about 45° C. For purposes of thepresent disclosure, temperatures greater than the pain threshold ofabout 45° C. are referred to generally herein as injurying temperatures.Also, the pain threshold for some people may be greater than 45° C.while the pain threshold for other people may be less than 45° C. Thus,desirable HSPs can be stimulated without incurring pain. The opticalenergy delivery modalities provided in accordance with embodiments ofthe present inventive concepts permit a complete solution to be providedthat offers greater safety and efficacy within a single device for thetreatment of soft tissue. Also, the present inventive concepts permit adevice to be used for extended periods of time, for example, over thecourse of a day, so long as there is sufficient time between treatmentsto let the tissue cool down after a particular tissue heating operation.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical device 1,in accordance with an embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

The device 1 has a distal treatment end 2 that is positioned at a targettissue, for example, a region of skin, to undergo non-injurying heatshock treatment, in accordance with an embodiment. The distal treatmentend 2 includes an output port 3 from where optical energy 4 can beoutput having a wavelength, energy dosage, and/or thermal boostsufficient to provide a non-injurying heat shock stimulation at thetarget tissue.

The distal treatment end 2 can further be configured to include one ormore safety sensors such as one or more contact sensor 5 and/or athermal sensor 6.

The contact sensor 5 can function as a safety interlock for the purposeof registering contact with the treatment tissue. Laser energy is onlyemitted when the device is in full contact with the tissue. Contactsensors may utilize measurement of tissue impedance such as capacitance,resistance, inductance or combinations thereof. The contact sensors maybe configured exposed electrically conductive contacts to measureresistance or inductance. The sensors may also be configured ascapacitors, such that the electrically conductive contacts may have adielectric insulator between the conductive contact and the tissue. Thepreferred embodiment utilizes a minimum of three or more contact sensorsequally spaced to form a plane around the output port 3. In someembodiments, in order for the device to register full contact with thetissue, all the contact sensors must sense contact. This ensures thatoutput port 3 is fully seated against, and abuts, the treatment tissueduring laser emission for laser safety considerations.

Delivering the proper amount of energy to the tissue to achieve thedesired temperature change is important to the safety and effectivenessof the treatment. If the energy dosage is not enough, the tissue willnot reach the target therapeutic temperatures. If the energy dosage istoo high, the tissue temperature increases beyond the pain threshold topotentially denaturation temperatures. Thermal sensors 6 are intended toprovide thermal feedback to the device of the tissue temperature. One ormore thermal sensors 6 may utilize thermal contact technologies, such asthermocouples or thermistors placed near or at the treatment area.Thermal sensors 6 may also utilize non-contact technologies, such asinfrared detectors that are able to detect thermal radiation from thetissue.

In an embodiment, the device 1 can include an optical spatialdistribution system (OSDS) 7, an optical energy source 8, controlelectronics 9, and a power source 10, some or all of which can bepositioned in a housing or enclosure 11 that is constructed and arrangedto be held by a person performing a medical treatment using the device1, and which can include an ergonomic and aesthetically pleasingpackaging. One or more of the OSDS 7, optical energy source 8, controlelectronics 9, and power source 10 can include subsystems that areintegrated at the enclosure 11.

In some embodiments, the OSDS 7 modifies a spatial distribution ofoptical energy to a desired distribution at the distal treatment end 2,resulting in the desired treatment effect of the emitted optical energy4 on the target tissue, for example, the thermal effect on the variousskin layers described herein. The OSDS 7 may include but not be limitedto a lens system for light focusing, defocusing, peak irradiancehomogeneous distribution, and/or a waveguide optic and/or opticalfiltering.

Referring to FIGS. 28A and 28B, a ray trace model in accordance with anembodiment can be provided to include a cylindrical lens as the OSDS 401and a diode laser as the energy source 402. In particular, FIG. 28A is atop view of an optical system corresponding to the ray trace model. FIG.28B is a side view of the optical system. In an embodiment,electromagnetic energy, for example, laser energy, propagates from theenergy source 402 to the OSDS 401. As shown in the graph, a spatialdistribution 404 in the X-axis at a treatment plane 403 is the result ofthe divergence and angular power distribution of the energy source 402in the low divergence (X-axis) modified by the OSDS 401. Spatialdistribution 404 at treatment plane 405 is the result of the divergenceand angular power distribution of the energy source 402 in the highdivergence (Y-axis) modified by the OSDS 401. In another embodiment, asshown in FIG. 29, the energy source 402 is shown with a waveguide as theOSDS 406. Spatial distributions shown in graphs 407, 408, 409 and 410 attreatment planes 411 and 412, respectively, are significantly moreuniform than the distributions of 402 and 404. The OSDS 406 in FIG. 29can use total internal reflection to modify the Gaussian angular powerdistribution of the energy source 402 to a more uniform flat topdistribution shown in 407, 408, 409 and 410. In this embodiment, length(L) of the OSDS 406 can be 31 mm or longer to reach uniform flat topdistribution 408. At 27 mm, spatial distribution 407 still has a largenon-uniform distribution of approximately 30%. The length (L) is drivenby the low divergence axis (X-axis) of the energy source 402.

FIG. 30 illustrates a comparison of a standard waveguide in an OSDS 413and a modified waveguide in an OSDS 414. A negative lens curvature 415can be integrated into the OSDS 414 to increase divergence of the energysource 402, possibly to match the high divergence (Y-axis), to reducethe required length of the OSDS 414 to achieve uniform spatialdistribution at treatment plane 416.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 31A, an OSDS 417 has an angledoutput surface 421. The output surface 421 can reflect >80% of internallight as shown as light leakage 418 when the output surface 421 is in anenvironment including air, and not in contact with a skin surface 419.Light leakage 418 can be further reduced by applying reflective coatingon the surface of the OSDS 417 at the leakage area 418. The lightleakage 418 can also be dissipated through the conversion of opticalenergy to thermal energy by use of an optical absorbing area. In FIG.31B, the output surface 421 is in contact with the skin 419. The indexof refraction at 1440 nm of the human epidermis is approximately 1.41and the index of refraction of fused silica used in the OSDS 417 is1.445. When the output surface 421 is in contact with skin 419, theindex of refraction is closely matched allowing optical coupling fromthe OSDS 417 to the skin 419.

FIGS. 32A, B illustrate another embodiment, in which the height (H) ofthe OSDS 422 is reduced to achieve total internal reflection with ashortened length (L). In some embodiments, the output surface 423 isangled to provide a substantially square treatment area.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the optical energy source 8 can generate asource of electromagnetic radiation such as light that is output at atarget tissue that induce the expression of HSPs in cells of the targettissue, in accordance with an embodiment. The optical energy source 8can include but not be limited to laser diodes and light emittingdiodes. The optical energy source 8 can include but not be limited toother light sources such as near infrared emitting intense pulse lightlamps or filament bulbs.

The temperature temporal profile of the target tissue can be controlledfor predetermined needs by modulating the temporal profile of theoptical energy source 8, for example, as described at least at FIGS. 7and 8. Accordingly, the optical energy source 8 with spatialdistribution modification by OSDS 7 can provide therapeutic treatmentenergies that raise tissue temperature ranging from 2° C. to 80° C. withrespect to a current temperature. In an embodiment, the optical energysource 8 provides peak power density requirements ranging from 1 W/cm²to 400 W/cm². In an embodiment, the optical energy source provides anaverage power density to maintain constant tissue temperature, forexample, between 0.1 W/cm² and 0.37 W/cm². In an embodiment, theoperating power density is between 0.1 W/cm² and 400 W/cm²

The control electronics 9 can control a user interaction and/or energydosage. The contact sensors 5 and thermal sensor 6 are electricallyconnected to the control electronics 9. The contact sensor 5 and/orthermal sensor 6 signals are interpreted by the control electronics 9 todetermine a contact state and a thermal state, respectively. If thedevice 1 is in fall contact, and the tissue temperature is withinacceptable limits, the control electronics permit a laser emission anddelivery of electrical current to the optical energy source 8. If thedevice is not in full contact with the tissue or the tissue temperatureis out of acceptable limits, the control electronics 9 will preventlaser emission. Control electronics 9 may include or otherwisecommunicate with a local microprocessor and embedded control software.The temporal profile of the electrical current delivered to the opticalenergy source 8 is controlled by the software embedded within themicroprocessor. The amount and duration of the electrical current ispreprogrammed with the software. The device 1 includes control buttonssuch as power and treatment buttons as shown in FIG. 2D. Userinteractions with control buttons are detected by the controlelectronics 9 and user interface is controlled through the softwareembedded within the microprocessor. The replenishment cartridges andlocal computers 64 can communicate with the microprocessor for purposesof treatment usage replenishment and firmware updates, described herein.

The power source 10 may include but not be limited to a power supplycircuit and/or a battery that provides a source of electrical energy tothe optical energy source 8 and/or other elements of the dermatologicalmedical device 1.

FIGS. 2A-2C are side views of various overall packaging concepts, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

One or more subsystems described herein can be packaged in a manner thatprovides an ergonomically optimized shape and configuration. Also, theenclosure 11 of the handheld dermatological medical device 1 referred toin FIG. 1 may be constructed and arranged for different gripping methodsand/or for ergonomic considerations. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG.2A, the handheld dermatological medical device 1 has a straightcylindrical shape 12. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2C, thehandheld dermatological medical device 1 is constructed and arranged sothat the distal end is perpendicular to the main body of an enclosure14. Here, optical energy 4 is output in a direction that isperpendicular to the main body of the enclosure 14. In anotherembodiment, as shown in FIG. 2B, the optical energy 4 is output in adirection that is angled between 0 and 90° relative to the main body ofan enclosure 13. Regardless of the configuration of the enclosure 11,the enclosure 11 permits a complete heat shock therapeutic systemsolution for a user, e.g., a consumer, that is cost effective withrespect to manufacturing and purchasing by a user.

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice 1 of FIGS. 1-2C, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinventive concepts.

The device 1 includes one or more of a safety sensor 102, a treatmentbutton 104, a replenishment indicator 106, a power setting indicator108, a power button 110, a device connector 112, and a battery indicator114.

The safety sensor 102 can include the contact sensor 5 and/or thermalsensor 6 described herein and can be positioned at or proximal to atreatment area.

The treatment button 104 can be constructed and arranged to activate orinactivate the device 1, for example, to control a treatment operationperformed at a treatment area.

The replenishment indicator 106 can display information, a light, orother indicator regarding an amount of time, uses, or the like that isremaining at the device 1. For example, the indicator 106 can includefour regions, each corresponding to 25% of available replenishmentcapacity of the device 1. When one region is illuminated duringoperation, for example, by an LED, this can indicate that the device 1is approaching an end of a current replenishment cycle. When the device1 receives a replenishment-related signal (described below), additionalregions at the indicator 106 can be illuminated during operation.

The power setting indicator 108 can display information, light, or otherindicator regarding a power setting, for example, indicative of anamount of optical energy 4 that is output from the device 1. The powerbutton 110 is constructed for a user to activate and inactivate thedevice 1. When the power button 110 is activated, one or more of theindicators 106, 108, and 114 can illuminate or display information andthe treatment button 104 can be pressed to establish an operation of thedevice 1.

The device connector 112 can be coupled to a USB device, a charger,and/or other external device for exchanging electrical signals, power,data, electrical signals, and so on.

The battery indicator 114 can display information, light, or otherindicator regarding a power condition of the device 1. For example, thebattery indicator 114 can display an amount of battery life left in thedevice 1. The battery indicator 114 can include multiple regions,similar to the replenishment indicator 106, except that the regions ofthe power setting indicator 108 pertain to an amount of remaining power.Alternatively, the indicator 114 can illuminate or otherwise displayinformation indicating that the device 1 is receiving power from anexternal power source, e.g., a wall socket.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are block diagrams of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice 15, in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinventive concepts. The device 15 can be similar to or the same as thosedescribed with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Therefore, details of thedevice 15 are not repeated for brevity.

In FIG. 3A, the device 15 may be electrically powered by connecting alow voltage power supply 16 directly to the device 15. The power supply16 can be coupled to a power source, such as an AC power receptacle.Alternatively, the power supply 16 can include a power source such as abattery. The power supply 16 can direct power to elements of the device15 such as an optical energy source similar to the optical energy source8 described with respect to FIG. 1, in which case the device 15 wouldrequire power via a power connector. The power connector is preferablycoupled to a proximal end of the device 15 opposite a distal end whereoptical energy is output. Power supply 16 may also be a local computerproviding low voltage electrical power to the device 15, as an examplethrough a USB port.

In FIG. 3R, the device 15 is electrically charged at a charging dockstation 17, which in turn receives power from a power supply 16.Accordingly, the device 15 in FIGS. 3A and 3B can be electrical chargedby direct contact or inductive charging methods well known to those ofordinary skill in the art.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical device 20packaged separately from control electronics and a power source, inaccordance with another embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the handheld dermatological medical device 20can include a contact sensor 25, a thermal sensor 26, an OSDS 18 and anoptical energy source 19, which are packaged under a common housing. Thecontact sensor 25, thermal sensor 26, OSDS 18 and optical energy source19 can be similar or the same as those described herein, and thereforedetails are not repeated for brevity. In FIG. 4, the handhelddermatological medical device 20 is separate from a set of controlelectronics 21 and a power source 22, which can be packaged in aseparate enclosure, referred to as a console housing 23, or other devicethat is remote from the handheld dermatological medical device 20. Anelectrical cable 24 can extend from the console 23 and can be coupled tothe handheld device 20 to deliver electrical power to the device 20, andto provide electrical communications with the device 20. Theinteractions between the contact sensor 25, thermal sensor 26, OSDS 18,optical energy source 19, control electronics 21 and power source 22 canbe similar or the same as those described at least at FIG. 1, andtherefore details are not repeated for brevity. The handhelddermatological device 20 may be disconnected from the console housing 23for purposes of new handheld device connections or replacements.Different OSDS 18 and optical energy sources 19 with different opticaloperating parameters such as spatial distribution, optical power, andwavelengths may be easily connected to a common console housing 23.

FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating a temperature range of an example medicaltreatment, consistent with embodiments of the present inventiveconcepts. The medical treatment can include a dermatological procedureknown to those of ordinary skill in the art, for example, wrinkleremoval or reduction.

In some embodiments, as described herein, HSP formation occurs when atemperature of human or animal tissue is increased by 2° C. or more. Asalso described herein, therapeutic goals are to generate non-injuryingtemperature increases in tissue with minimal or no pain. Conventionalnon-ablative therapies include thermal denaturization which occurs attemperatures at or exceeding 60° C., and thermal coagulation whichoccurs at temperatures at or exceeding 45° C. Hence, a goal fortreatments performed in accordance with the present inventive conceptscan occur by increasing a body target tissue temperature by 2° C. to 8°C. without exceeding a temperature of 45° C. at which pain is typicallyexperienced. In this manner, a treatment can be performed in a mild heatshock treatment range, for example, between 37° C. to 45° C., shown inthe desired treatment range 28.

To maximize the therapeutic efficacy and minimize unintended sideeffects, embodiments of the present inventive concepts provide systemsand methods for controlling the amount of therapeutic energy deliveredat target tissue, by controlling the temporal profile of energy, forexample, laser energy, delivered to a tissue region undergoing atreatment. Both peak powers and exposure time of the energy output froma dermatological medical device can be modulated to provide a desiredclinical effect.

Also, as shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, an exposure of energyoutput from a dermatological medical device that is between 2-10 secondsat temperatures that do not exceed 45° C. is preferable for treatment.Tissue that is exposed to an elevated temperature for more than 2seconds can result in an up-regulation of HSPs, or an increasedexpression of one or more genes corresponding to tissue cells, and as aresult, the proteins, more specifically HSPs, encoded by those genes.However, heat shock exposure at least at 45° C. for more than 10 secondscan have a traumatizing effect on cell proliferation.

Accordingly, in an embodiment, a desirable HSP expression occurs whentissue is exposed to a >2° C. temperature increase for an exposureduration of 2-10 seconds of exposure.

FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating a skin temperature temporal profilerelative to an optical power continuous wave temporal profile, inaccordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. The skintemperature temporal profile can be similar to or the same as that shownat FIG. 5.

An optical power amplitude can be modulated during a treatment pulse togenerate the desired temporal temperature profile as shown in theoptical power continuous wave temporal profile of FIG. 6. Considerationcan be made to deliver high power 29(P) at the beginning of the pulse tomaximize a temperature rise rate 30 shown at graph illustrating the skintemperature temporal profile. As an example, experimental data has shownthat 1 W/cm² provides a temperature rise rate of approximately 1° C./sat 0.5 mm tissue depth. Pulsewidths of 20 ms or longer are required tostay below ablative parameters. For temperature rise rate 30 required toincrease tissue temperature by 8° C. within 20 ms may require a peakpower density of 400 W/cm². A treatment spot size delivered by the OSDS7 will be sized according to optical output power capabilities of theoptical energy source 8. A 1 mm diameter treatment spot is able toachieve 400 W/cm² with an optical energy source 8 capable of producing3.14 W. Alternatively, the minimum temperature rise rate 30 with atemperature rise of at least 2° C. within 2 s may require 1 W/cm². Thepower 27 can be reduced at region P_(M), referred to as a temperaturemaintenance region, to maintain the temperature within a desiredtreatment range 28 shown at the graph illustrating the skin temperaturetemporal profile, preferably below a pain threshold at or about 45° C.as shown in the temporal temperature profile graph.

The pulse shape is shown in FIG. 6 as a continuous waveform. In otherembodiments, different pulse structures can equally apply. For example,as shown in FIG. 7, the pulse amplitude and temporal structure can bemodulated to achieve desired target temperature profile. A temperatureamplitude 31 can be modulated as a result of the pulse structure 32. Thecontrol electronics 9 can provide a modulated electrical current to theoptical energy source 8, resulting in pulse structure 32.

As described above, embodiments of the present inventive conceptsinclude a device that provides a noninjuring heat shock treatment,wherein the minimum target tissue temperature increase is between 2°C.-8° C., and remains below the pain threshold of or about 45° C. In anembodiment, the treatment dosage is provided by an optical energysource, for example, controlled by the control electronics 9, 21described herein and output by the optical energy source 8, 19 describedherein.

Experimental data shows that at 6.8 W/cm² power density can generate a6.8° C./s temperature rise in live human tissue at a 0.5 mm depth.Experimental data also indicates a resulting temperature rise rate of 1°C./s per 1 W/cm² at the 0.5 mm tissue depth. In an embodiment, atreatment pulse width is less than 2 seconds. In a non-ablative therapyaccording to some embodiments, pulse widths are generally equal to orgreater than a few milliseconds. In some embodiments, a pulse widthranges from 0.02 to 2 seconds. Required peak power density range is 1W/cm² to 400 W/cm². Further empirical data has shown that 0.1 W/cm² isrequired to maintain a steady state temperature rise of 2° C. and 0.37W/cm² for maintaining a steady state temperature rise of 8° C., forexample, shown at FIG. 26.

In an embodiment, an HSP expression is dependent on temperature exposureand/or time duration exposure times. As therapeutic energy and timeexposure requirements increase, the system performance requirements canincrease, thus increasing size and cost of the product. In anembodiment, provided are a system and method that extend the thermalexposure time by providing a thermal boost at the end of the treatmentpulse.

FIG. 8 is a graph illustrating a thermal boost 33 at the end of atreatment pulse, in accordance with embodiments of the present inventiveconcepts. The thermal boost 33 is produced by an increase of outputpower from the optical energy source 8 as a result of increasedelectrical current produced from the control electronics 9. The temporalstructure of a generated treatment pulse 34 may be modified to providean additional boost of power at the end of the pulse to extend theexposure time 35 of the tissue to elevated therapeutic treatmenttemperatures, preferably not greater than the pain threshold temperatureof or about 45° C. A thermal boost at or near the end of the treatmentpulse may minimize pain while maximizing temperature exposure time andHSP generation. Experimental results in human testing have demonstratedan extended temperature exposure time of 6 seconds before cooling belowa therapeutic temperature threshold, for example, illustrated at FIG.27.

Laser light propagation through the skin depends on the opticalproperties of the skin and the laser light wavelength. In doing so, thedevice can be constructed and arranged so that the spatial distributiondetermines the effectiveness of reaching target tissue depths. Lasernon-ablative stimulation of collagen synthesis typically ranges from a676 nm to 1540 nm region, but is not limited thereto. The device canalso be constructed and arranged such that wavelength selection isoptimized for an efficient conversion of light energy to heat at theintended treatment region.

FIG. 9 is a graph illustrating a set of wavelength ranges of interest,in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. Anoptical energy source of a handheld dermatological medical device, forexample, described at FIGS. 1-4, can generate electromagnetic energy atone or more of the wavelengths as shown in FIG. 9. Lasers can beprovided that generate light at a wavelength within a narrow spectralbandwidth. Lamps can be provided that generate broader spectralbandwidths.

In an embodiment, a target therapeutic region of tissue of interest isat least ⅓ of an average dermis thickness of 3 mm. With regard to skin,water is the predominant chromophore of absorption. Thus, targetingwater as a most effective absorptive chromophore while ensuring thatenergy is delivered to a target region can be economically effective.Selecting an operating wavelength that is not at the peak absorption ofwater may be on orders of magnitude poorer absorption, resulting inlittle to no effect. In this case, the amount of energy delivered to thetissue must be increased on an order of magnitude sufficient to reachequivalent effectiveness. This requires an increased power output fromthe optical energy source 8, which in turn requires an increased powerdelivery from the control electronics 9. If such increases aretechnically feasible, manufacturing costs make the device economicallyineffective.

A first order approximation can be determined by using the attenuationformula (1). The purpose of the formula is to determine the desiredoperating wavelengths.

I=I ₀ e ^(−(ηαx))  (1)

-   -   Where:        -   x=distance        -   η=concentration percentage of absorption        -   α=absorption coefficient        -   I=intensity at distance x        -   I₀=initial intensity

It follows that a can be determined with a known intensity ratio (I/I₀)and required depth x. In an embodiment, the absorption length isdetermined to be between 0.2 mm, which is beyond the epidermal layer and1 mm at 37% intensity level. An absorption length is distance (x). In anembodiment, the required resulting total absorption coefficient isbetween 14 cm⁻¹ and 71 cm⁻¹. As shown in FIG. 9, wavelength ranges ofinterest can include but not be limited to 1400 nm-1530 nm, 1850 nm-1900nm, and 2000 nm-2450 nm.

In some embodiments, the energy source, for example, the optical energysource 8 or 19 referred to herein, is a narrowband or monochromaticlaser source emitting in one or more of the wavelength bands ofinterest. In some embodiments, the energy source is a narrowband lightemitting diode (LED) or the like. In another embodiment, the energysource is a broadband emitting lamp or filament bulb emitting nearinfrared broadband, for example, providing wavelength bands of 1400 nmto 1900 nm and 2000 nm to 2450 nm.

The effective delivery of therapeutic light energy to the target depthcan directly affect the efficacy of the treatment. The reduction of apreliminary energy loss by reducing or removing absorbing chromophore inthe stratum corneum of the skin is described herein. Another potentialform of energy loss can occur due to the mechanical distance of thetarget treatment region from the source

Conventional doctor-prescribed and consumer devices alike provideinjurying treatment dosages to the tissue. Accordingly, side effectssuch as significant pain and extended healing times are prevalent. Also,frequent usage, for example, daily applications, is prohibited fordoctor-prescribed treatment modalities. As technology andcommercialization costs decline, laser based treatment modalities arebecoming readily available to the consumer market. However, marketacceptance is limited by the cost of treatments and the abovementionedside effects. An HSP expression can increase over time and then returnsto normal levels, with peaks occurring between 1.5 and 48 hours.Furthermore, a maximum up-regulation of both procollagen types I and IIIgene expressions can occur at or about 24 hours after heat shockexposure.

In a preferred embodiment, a non-injurying heat shock treatment isperformed a handheld dermatological medical device on a predeterminedbasis, for example, a daily or an hourly treatment regimen.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are graphs illustrating an HSP expression over timerelative to treatment intervals, in accordance with embodiments of thepresent inventive concepts.

In FIG. 10A, first and second heat shock treatments are provided on atissue region. The first heat shock treatment occurs at a first time T₁.The second shock treatment occurs at a second time T₂, or apredetermined period of time after the first time T₁. As an example, HSPexpression will start and peak sometime between 1.5 hours to 48 hoursafter treatment T1. If the second treatment T₂ is delayed for 1 weekafter T₁, the treated tissue may be without any HSP expression for aslong as 5 to 7 days, minimizing collagen synthesis.

As illustrated in FIG. 10B, the time between treatments, e.g., T₁ andT₂, of a plurality of treatments (T₁-T₈) can be significantly reduced.In doing so, an average HSP expression 36 can be increased to an averageHSP expression 36′. An HSP expression, i.e., an amount, increases andpeaks over time after treatment. The “average HSP expression” is theaverage amount of HSP produced during the period of time. As a treatmentfrequency increases, the average procollagen type 1 and HSP expressionincreases resulting in more collagen synthesis. Accordingly, the systemsand methods in accordance with embodiments can provide cost effectiveand efficacious daily or even hourly treatments. Conventionaldoctor-prescribed treatments, on the other hand, can be cost prohibitivefor daily treatments.

FIG. 11 is a view of the geometry of a skin wrinkle 38. Animal or humanskin includes three main layers: a stratum corneum 41, an epidermis 40,and a dermis 37, as is well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art.Depending on the body location, the thickness of the stratum corneumlayer 37 can be from 10 to 20 μm. The epidermis layer 40 can have athickness from 50 to 150 μm. The dermis layer 37 can have a thicknessranging from 300 μm to 3 mm.

Water content in the stratum corneum 41 can range from 15% at the outersurface to 40% at a junction of stratum corneum 41 and the epidermis 40.Further into the epidermis 40, the water content can quickly increase70%, where saturation may occur. In an embodiment, water is a mainchromophore. Reducing the chromophore in the stratum corneum 41 reducesenergy absorption at the stratum corneum 41, resulting in less heatgeneration. Reducing heat absorption in the stratum corneum 41 alsoreduces pain since free nerve endings end at the junction of the stratumcorneum 41 and epidermis 40. In a preferred embodiment, a dessecatingaqueous solution is used as part of a treatment protocol to removesurface tissue moisture, and thus reducing a loss of laser energygenerated by a handheld dermatological medical device at the surface ofthe skin.

The folds in the stratum corneum 41, the epidermis 40, and the dermis 37illustrate the presence of a wrinkle. The geometry of the wrinkle 38 mayprevent a delivery of electromagnetic radiation such as light 39 outputfrom a handheld dermatological medical device to a targeted region inthe dermis 37. The light 39 can propagate further along the foldedepidermis 40 and/or the stratum corneum 41. As shown in FIG. 12, amechanical manipulation of the wrinkle to flatten or stretch the tissuecan allow an effective delivery of the light 39 or other electromagneticradiation may be achieved by manually stretching the skin or feature maybe built into a device such as the handheld device described inaccordance with embodiments herein. Stretching the skin in this mannercan permit laser light or the like output from the device to propagatedeeper into the tissue by reducing the optical path length. Stretchingthe skin in this manner can also thin the tissue, thereby forcingadditional chromophores such as water and blood away from the treatmentsite.

FIG. 13 is a two-dimensional cross section view of a skin stretchingmechanism 42 applied to a skin wrinkle, in accordance with embodimentsof the present inventive concepts. The skin stretching mechanism 42 caninclude two or more elements that are separate from, and moveindependently of each other. The elements of the skin stretchingmechanism 42 can be movably coupled to a handheld dermatological medicaldevice, for example, coupled to and pivoting about the treatment end ofthe enclosure 11 of the device 1 described with reference to FIG. 1, orthe device 53 described with reference to FIG. 15. The concept can beexpanded to a three dimensional solution, where the device stretches theskin tissue 43 in multiple axial directions. The mechanism 42 can applya mechanical cam action to stretch the skin tissue 43. Friction at thetip 54 of the mechanical stretching mechanism 42 may be increasedthrough texturing.

In a preferred embodiment, the skin stretching mechanism 42 stretchesthe tissue 43 with outward forces 44, also referred to as stretchingforces, when a downward force 45 is applied, temporarily reducing orremoving the wrinkle 46. Here, each of the elements 42 moves in oppositedirections with respect to each other to stretch the tissue 43. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 13, the leftmost element 42 can move in afirst linear direction along an axis, and the rightmost element 42 canmove in a second linear direction opposite the first linear directionalong the same axis.

FIG. 14 illustrates a skin stretching mechanism 47 including a pliablepolymer material. In a preferred embodiment, two or more elements of theskin stretcher mechanism 47 can stretch the tissue 50 with outwardforces 48 when a downward force 49 is applied, reducing or removing awrinkle 51, in particular, when a stretching action is performed on thetissue 50 in combination with an application of optical energy from thedevice in accordance with an embodiment, for example, described herein.

FIG. 15 is a view of a mechanical skin stretching mechanism 52integrated into a handheld dermatological medical device 53, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present inventive concepts. Forexample, as described above, elements of the stretching mechanism 52 canbe movably coupled to the device 52 so that the elements 52 can pivot,rotate, extend, or otherwise move relative to each other during a skinstretching operation, for example, when a force is applied by the device53 to target issue, thereby causing the elements to move in directionsdifferent from each other, thereby stretching the target tissue,temporarily removing a wrinkle to reduce the optical path length to thetarget tissue.

The target consumer for the beauty market typically has a routine beautyregime, and is willing to undergo the ongoing expense to maintain thisregime. The typical buying habit of the consumer is to purchase beautyproducts on a periodic basis, for example, weekly or monthly. Thepurchase price of conventional aesthetic laser devices is typicallyhigher than the average consumer can afford or willing to pay, andsubsequently, the price barrier often results in a lack of widespreadmarket acceptance, i.e., beauty-conscious consumers. Although theconsumer's total annual expenditures may equal or exceed the retailprice of an expensive laser device, consumers are less likely topurchase and pay all at once.

Accordingly, some embodiments include a business model that allows theretail pricing level to fit within the target consumer's monthlyspending habits. One solution is to spread the consumer's total costover time instead of incurring it all at once. Some embodiments includea method that spreads the consumer's cost by adopting a replenishmentbusiness model.

Consumable items such as topicals are ideal candidates for areplenishment model in that such products are consumed on use. Once thetopical is completely consumed, the consumer has to purchase additionalquantities of the topical to continue use. Single or limited usedisposables also fit within the replenishment business model. As anexample, single use disposables, for example, needles, latex gloves, andso on, are used in surgical and medical applications where sterility isa critical concern. Other consumable examples include limited lifecomponents such as batteries, light bulbs, and so on. A well-knownexample is that of the “razor”, where a user purchases a single razor,which is constructed and arranged to receive a disposable razor blade.Consumers can therefore purchase relatively inexpensive razor blades onan as-needed basis, which can be coupled to the razor.

Along these lines, some embodiments of the present inventive conceptsutilize a replenishment model of pay-per-use and consumable products.Instead of purchasing a physical consumable component, the embodimentsemploy a pay-per-use model that limits the treatment time or usage of ahandheld dermatological medical device, which must receive replenishmentdata in order to operate for continued use.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical device56 constructed and arranged to communicate with a replenishmentcartridge 57, in accordance with an embodiment. The handhelddermatological medical device 56 in accordance with some embodiments canbe constructed and arranged to operate according to a method forreplenishment, for example, described herein, which can permit a user topurchase a device such as the handheld dermatological medical device 56at a low initial retail price, while being permitted to continually usethe device 56 through low replenishment costs that fit within the targetconsumer's buying habits, which can be similar to those as purchasingconsumable beauty products such as topicals, creams, moisturizers, andso on. The device 56 can be similar to a handheld dermatological medicaldevice according to other embodiments herein, except that the device 56includes a microcontroller 55 that communicates with a disposablereplenishment cartridge 57. The replenishment cartridge 57 may beinserted into the device 56 or attached externally. In both cases, anelectrical connector is used to provide an electrical connection betweenthe device 56 and the replenishment cartridge 57.

The replenishment cartridge 57 comprises a microcontroller 58 and/or aconsumable part 59. The consumable part 59 is comprised of electroniccomponents that have a limited life, and can be replaced withoutdisposing of the entire replenishment cartridge 57. Limited lifecomponents of the consumable part 59 can include but not be limited tobatteries, power electronics, optical components and laser or lightsources. Power electronic switchers such as metal-oxide-semiconductorfield-effect transistors (MOSFETs) and bipolar transistors have reducedlifetimes when exposed to excessive operating parameters. Light sourcessuch as lamps and laser diodes also have a finite life. Themicrocontroller 58 can monitor the operation of the consumable part 59and communicate a consumable part 59 operation or failure to the device56, for example, the microcontroller 55. In an embodiment themicrocontroller 58 may determine the maximum life time of the consumablepart 59. As an example, the consumable part 59 may include a fuse thatis connected to the control electronics (not shown) of the device and iselectrically in series with the optical energy source (not shown) of thedevice 56, thus completing the electrical circuit from the controlelectronics 9 to the optical energy source 8. Once the device 56 hasexceeded a set maximum number of treatments, the microcontroller 58 candisable the replenishment cartridge 57 by blowing the fuse, therebybreaking the electrical connection between the optical energy source 8and control electronics 9.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are block diagrams of different replenishmentcartridge connection options, in accordance with some embodiments.

In a preferred embodiment, pay per use hardware replenishment can beachieved through replacement cartridges in communication with a handhelddermatological medical device. As shown in FIG. 17B, a replenishmentcartridge 71 can be directly attached to a handheld dermatologicalmedical device 68. For example, the handheld device 68 can include aninlet port or the like that removably couples to the replenishmentcartridge 71 so that the device 68 within its housing can receiveelectronic data, power, and so on from the cartridge 71. In anotherembodiment, as shown in FIG. 17A, a replenishment cartridge 69communicates with a handheld dermatological medical device 67 via acable 70, or other communication medium known to those of ordinary skillin the art. Alternatively, a replenishment cartridge can be integratedinto a functional component such as a disposable treatment tip 80 asshown in FIG. 18. In an embodiment, the disposable treatment tip 80 isremoved from a non-disposable handheld member 81 and replaced with a newone when the replenishment cartridge expires, or more particular, apredetermined number of uses identified in the data in the replenishmentcartridge in the treatment tip 80 expires. The device can thereforeprovide an amount of cleanliness or sanitary benefit when the handheldmember 81 is used on multiple people, since a different treatment tip 80can be provided for each person being treated.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medical device72 including a key code replenishment platform 73, in accordance with anembodiment. The handheld dermatological medical device 72 can be similarto one or more other handheld dermatological medical devices describedherein, so details of the handheld dermatological medical device 72 arenot repeated due to brevity.

The key code replenishment platform 73 of the device 72 includes acamera or RFID transceiver or the like for reading a replenishmentkeycode 74 such as an RFID, a barcode reader, a WiFitransmitter/receiver, a microUSB port, and/or other electronic devicethat can receive data related to the replenishment keycode 74. Thereplenishment platform 73 includes a processor that receives andprocesses the replenishment keycode 74 and outputs a signal to thecontrol electronics of the device 72 for activating the device 72 foruse. The replenishment keycode 74 can include data that establishes anumber of uses, a timeframe during which unlimited use can occur, orother parameters that establish limited or unlimited use of the device72.

FIG. 20 illustrates a block diagram of a replenishment systemcommunications environment, in accordance with an embodiment.

A pay-per-use electronic replenishment can be achieved through directelectronic communication between a replenishment server 60 and ahandheld dermatological medical device 65. The handheld dermatologicalmedical device 65 can be similar to one or more other handhelddermatological medical devices described herein, so details of thehandheld dermatological medical device 65 are not repeated due tobrevity.

The replenishment server 60 includes data related to the programming andactivation/deactivation of the handheld dermatological medical device 65with respect to use. For example, the replenishment server 60 can outputdata that is received by the device 65 that establishes unlimited use ofthe device 65 for 30 days. In another example, the replenishment server60 can output data that is received by the device 65 that establishes apreconfigured number of treatments each for a predetermined amount oftime, for example, 10 hourly treatments.

Communication between the remote replenishment server 60 and thehandheld dermatological medical device 65 can be established through anetwork 61, such as a local area network, a wide area network, awireless network, the internet, or a combination thereof. For example, alocal computer 64 can be coupled to a router or other device via aconnection 63 that establishes a communication with the network 61.

During operation, a key code replenishment can be delivered from thereplenishment server 60 to a customer's computer 64 by means of an emailor other communication. The consumer may enter the key code into thelocal computer 64. The local computer 64 can communicate via proprietarysoftware program with the handheld dermatological medical device 65 viaa USB cable 66 or other well-known electrical connector.

In an embodiment, the handheld dermatological medical device 65communicates with a docking station, for example described herein, toreceive power, replenishment data, for example, described herein, and/orother electronic data.

FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice 77 positioned in a docking station 75 having a replenishmentplatform, in accordance with an embodiment. The docking station 75 canbe constructed and arranged to receive a replenishment cartridge 76 aswell as the handheld dermatological medical device 77.

The handheld dermatological medical device 77 can be similar to one ormore other handheld dermatological medical devices described herein.Therefore, details of the handheld dermatological medical device 77 arenot repeated due to brevity.

In some embodiment, a replenishment cartridge 76 is inserted intodocking station 75, instead of the device 77 as distinguished from otherembodiments, for example, described herein.

The docking station 75 can include a computer interface, for example, aUSB port, a charger, and/or other connector for communicating withexternal devices. The computer interface can provide for electronicreplenishment, software updates, and/or other electronic exchange ofdata, power, etc.

The replenishment platform can include a camera or RFID transceiver orthe like for reading a replenishment keycode 74 such as an RFID, abarcode reader, a WiFi transmitter/receiver, a microUSB port, and/orother electronic device that can receive data related to thereplenishment cartridge 76. For example, when the cartridge 76 isremovably coupled to the docking station 75, the replenishment platformcan receive and process replenishment data, and output a signal to thecontrol electronics of the handheld device 77 for activating the device77 for use.

The docking station 75 can include a display such as a liquid-crystaldisplay (LCD) that presents a visual status of the handheld device 77.For example, the LCD display can display a number of uses availablebefore replenishment is required.

FIG. 22 illustrates a block diagram of a handheld dermatological medicaldevice 77 positioned in a docking station 79 having a replenishmentplatform, in accordance with another embodiment.

In an embodiment, the docking station 79 is constructed to receive aconsumable such as a topical product 78 that includes a replenishmentkeycode 82 such as a barcode or RFID. The topical product 78 may be usedadjunctively with the dermatological device during the treatment. Thistopical product 78 may be proprietary. The docking station 79 can readthe keycode, barcode or RFID to authenticate the topical product 78.Barcode information can include a product model, replenishment value,and/or unique identifier. In cases where a counterfeit product mayemerge, the use of the handheld dermatological medical device 77 isprevented. Additionally, the topical product 78 is consumed during itsuse. The handheld dermatological medical device 77 will stop functioningafter a predetermined number of uses, an amount of time of use, or otheroperation parameters based upon the topical product's 78 keycode. Fulloperation of the handheld dermatological medical device 77 will onlyoccur after the replenishment of topical product 78 through the purchaseand installation of a new topical product 78 bottle.

Continued use of the handheld dermatological medical device 77 can belimited by the availability and access to replenishment distributionchannels. Uninterrupted usage can also depend on the consumer'sdiligence in ensuring replenishment occurs prior to laser device runningout of usage time or consumables. In a preferred embodiment, thisbusiness model offers a subscription to automatically providereplenishment in advance to prevent interrupted usage.

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 200 for replenishing amedical device for continued use, in accordance with an embodiment. Indescribing FIG. 23, reference can be made to elements of other figuresherein.

At block 202, a handheld dermatological medical device is programmed toinclude a use parameter. The use parameter can include a “refill”feature, for example, a number of permitted uses, an amount of time ofuse, or other finite replenishment value.

At decision diamond 204, a determination is made whether a current usevalue exceeds the programmable use parameter. If it is determined thatthe current use value exceeds the use parameter, then the method 200proceeds to block 206, where the device can be programmed with a new useparameter, for example, replenished for a predetermined amount ofcontinued use.

If it is determined that the current use value does not exceed the userparameter, then this indicates that there are sufficient treatmentshots, i.e., individual uses, or available time for continued use, andthe method 200 can proceed to block 208, where the device remains activeuntil a determination is made that the device must be replenished forcontinued use.

FIG. 24 is a workflow and functional flow diagram illustrating a method300 for replenishing a medical device for continued use, in accordancewith an embodiment. The medical device can include a handhelddermatological medical device, for example, described herein. Some orall of the method 300 can be performed at a handheld dermatologicalmedical device, a replenishment server or platform, and/or otherelectronic device having at least a processor and storage device, forexample, a memory.

At block 302, a consumer purchases a medical device having a finiteusage life. The medical device preferably includes an electroniccomponent that includes at least a processor and/or memory for storingdata. The finite usage life of the medical device can include apredetermined number of treatment shots or an amount of time of use ofthe device. The device can be constructed and arranged to be preventedto operate when the final usage life is 0, and to operate when the usagelife is greater than 0. In an embodiment, the product is initiallyconfigured with at least one free replenishment.

At block 304, in order to redeem the replenishment provided at block302, the medical device is registered with the replenishment server.During registration, is the medical device can be provided with asubscription for automatic replenishment, for example, as shown in FIG.24.

At block 306, the medical device can be operational for use. In anembodiment, the medical device is activated when the medical device isprogrammed with replenishment data, described herein. The medical deviceis inactivated when the medical device does not have replenishment data.

At decision diamond 308, a determination is made whether the medicaldevice requires replenishment data. If yes, then the method 300 proceedsto decision diamond 310, where a determination is made whether the formof replenishment is hardware replenishment, for example, describedherein, or at decision diamond 312, where a determination is madewhether the medical device is in communication with a replenishmentserver, for example, described at FIG. 20. Returning to decision diamond308, if a determination is made that the medical device does not requirereplenishment data, then the method 300 proceeds to block 306.

Returning to decision diamond 310, if a determination is made that theform of replenishment is hardware replenishment, then the method 300proceeds to decision diamond 314, where a determination is made whetherthe medical device receives replenishment data, for example, including apredetermined number of uses, a period of time of use, and so on. Ifyes, then the method 300 proceeds to block 306. If no, then the methodproceeds to block 316 where the medical device is inactivated, andceases to function.

Returning to decision diamond 312, if a determination is made that themedical device is in communication with a replenishment server, then themethod 300 proceeds to decision diamond 318, wherein a determination ismade whether a subscriber is active. If no, then the method 300 proceedsto block 316, where the medical device is inactivated, and ceases tofunction. If yes, then the method 300 proceeds to block 306. If atdecision diamond 312 a determination is made that the medical device isnot in communication with a replenishment server, then the methodproceeds to block 320, where the medical device is inactivated, andceases to function.

FIG. 25 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 350 for replenishing amedical device for continued use, in accordance with an embodiment. Themedical device can include a handheld dermatological medical device, forexample, described herein. Some or all of the method 300 can beperformed at a handheld dermatological medical device, a replenishmentserver or platform, and/or other electronic device having at least aprocessor and storage device, for example, a memory.

At block 352, a consumer registers to redeem a free replenishment. Inparticular, the handheld dermatological medical device establishes anelectronic communication with a replenishment server, device, orplatform, for example, described herein.

At block 354, the replenishment server receives data such as consumerinformation, product serial number, and/or other relevant information,and stores it at a memory location.

At block 356, a subscription for automatic replenishment is provided.Information regarding the subscription can be electronically generatedat the replenishment server or at a computer server or other electronicdevice separate from and in communication with the replenishment server.The subscription information can be displayed at an LCD display or thelike for viewing by the user.

At decision diamond 358, a determination is made whether to accept theoffer for a subscription. If the user decides to purchase or otherwiseaccepts to receive a subscription, then the method 350 proceeds to block360, where an acceptance signal is generated, for example, from thehandheld dermatological medical device and/or a remote computerprocessor, and output to the replenishment server. The acceptance signalincludes consumer information, for example, described herein, and isstored at the replenishment server. Otherwise, the method 350 proceedsto block 362, where the replenishment server generates an electronicsignal that includes data related to a reminder to replenish thehandheld dermatological medical device for continued use.

While the present inventive concepts have been particularly shown anddescribed above with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it willbe understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, that variouschanges in form and detail can be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the present inventive concepts.

What is claimed is:
 1. A dermatological medical device, comprising: adistal end for positioning at a region proximal a target therapeuticregion of tissue; an output port at the distal end; an energy sourcethat generates optical energy, which is output from the output port tothe target therapeutic region of tissue; and a microcontroller thatprocesses replenishment data that controls an operation parameter of thedevice, wherein the device is activated for performing a treatmentoperation in response to a receipt and processing of the replenishmentdata.
 2. The dermatological medical device of claim 1, furthercomprising a control device that controls the optical energy at thetarget therapeutic region of tissue for increasing a temperature of thetarget therapeutic region of tissue for a predetermined period of timeto a temperature that does not exceed a non-injurying temperature whileinducing an expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) at the targettherapeutic region of tissue.
 3. The dermatological medical device ofclaim 1, further comprising a replenishment cartridge that outputs thereplenishment data to the microcontroller.
 4. The dermatological medicaldevice of claim 3, wherein the replenishment cartridge is positioned inthe dermatological medical device.
 5. The dermatological medical deviceof claim 3, wherein the replenishment cartridge is external to thedermatological medical device and in communication with thedermatological medical device by an electrical connector.
 6. Thedermatological medical device of claim 3, further comprising adisposable treatment tip coupled to the distal end of the device,wherein the tip includes the replenishment cartridge.
 7. Thedermatological medical device of claim 3, wherein the replenishmentcartridge includes a consumable part and a microcontroller.
 8. Thedermatological medical device of claim 1, wherein the replenishment datais provided by a key code replenishment mechanism.
 9. The dermatologicalmedical device of claim 8, wherein the key code replenishment mechanismincludes a bar code.
 10. The dermatological medical device of claim 9,wherein the bar code is detected and read by the handheld member. 11.The dermatological medical device of claim 1, wherein the key codereplenishment mechanism includes a radio frequency identification(RFID).
 12. The dermatological medical device of claim 1, wherein thereplenishment data is provided by a replenishment server incommunication with the dermatological medical device.
 13. Thedermatological medical device of claim 1, wherein key code replenishmentis provided to the customer and entered manually through a localcomputer that is directly connected to the handheld member
 14. A methodfor pay-per-use electronic replenishment, comprising: programming ahandheld dermatological medical device with a use parameter; determiningwhether current use data exceeds the use parameter; and replenishing thehandheld dermatological medical device with a new use parameter inresponse to a determination that the current use data exceeds the useparameter.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the use parameterincludes data corresponding to a a maximum treatment time or usage. 16.The method of claim 14, wherein the handheld dermatological medicaldevice is replenished by a replenishment cartridge that outputs the newuse parameter to a microcontroller at the handheld dermatologicalmedical device.
 17. The method of claim 14, further comprisingpositioning the replenishment cartridge in the dermatological medicaldevice.
 18. The method of claim 14, further comprising positioning thereplenishment cartridge at a location external to the dermatologicalmedical device and coupling an electrical connector between thereplenishment device and the dermatological medical device forestablishing communication with the dermatological medical device. 19.The method of claim 14, further comprising coupling a disposabletreatment tip to a distal end of the device, wherein the tip includesthe replenishment cartridge.
 20. The method of claim 14, wherein the newuse parameter is provided by a replenishment server in communicationwith the dermatological medical device.